Grammy Best Rock Album Nominations Spark Surprises and Debates

The 2025 Grammy nominations for Best Rock Album are out. They feature a surprising mix of established giants and modern favorites. The list includes Linkin Park, Deftones, Haim, Turnstile, and Yungblud.

This year’s slate has sparked conversation for its omissions and inclusions. It signals a potential shift in how the Recording Academy views the rock genre today. The winner will be announced at the upcoming awards ceremony.

A Deep Dive Into the 2025 Rock Album Contenders

Linkin Park’s nomination for From Zero is a major headline. It marks their first album in seven years and their first with new vocalist Emily Armstrong. The nod represents a significant comeback story for the band.

Deftones received a nomination for their acclaimed record Private Music. Critics praised the album for its confident sound. According to Rolling Stone, the record arrived with “no gimmick or plea for relevancy.”

Haim’s I Quit continues the sister trio’s streak of Grammy recognition. The album expanded their audience to major venues. Industry voices note they blend pop and indie rock in a unique way.

Turnstile leads with five total nominations this year, including this one for Never Enough. The band’s energetic sound has crossed over to mainstream audiences. They are viewed as leaders of a new rock generation.

Yungblud rounds out the category with his album Idols. He has cultivated a dedicated fanbase that bridges rock and alternative styles. His nomination was widely predicted by industry observers.

Predicting the Winner in a Tight Category

Many critics believe the award is a two-horse race. On one side is the consistent artistry of Deftones. On the other is the current momentum behind Turnstile.

A win for Deftones would honor a band with a decades-long legacy of innovation. Their album has been called one of their best. It would be their first Grammy win in nearly 25 years.

A victory for Turnstile would likely cement their status as rock’s newest arena headliners. Their cross-genre appeal and critical acclaim make them a strong contender. They represent the fresh sound currently energizing the rock scene.

The 2025 Grammy for Best Rock Album will highlight a pivotal moment for guitar music. It honors both legacy and innovation in a rapidly evolving genre. This year’s winner will capture the current spirit of rock and roll.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: When will the Grammy winner be announced?

The winners for all categories, including Best Rock Album, will be announced during the televised Grammy Awards ceremony. The exact date for the 2025 event is typically in early winter.

Q2: Who votes for the Grammy winners?

Voting members of the Recording Academy vote for the winners. These are music professionals, including artists, engineers, and producers, who have been peer-reviewed for membership.

Q3: Was there a big surprise in the nominations?

Yes. The inclusion of Linkin Park’s comeback album was a surprise to some, given the mixed radio reception. The omission of predicted veterans like David Gilmour was also notable.

Q4: How many Grammys has Turnstile won before?

Despite multiple past nominations, Turnstile has not yet won a Grammy. Their five nominations this year give them a strong chance to change that.

Q5: Why is this category considered significant?

The Best Rock Album category is seen as a barometer for the genre’s health. It shows which artists are resonating with both the industry and the broader culture.